Gold Coast Set To Elevate Para-swimming To A New Stage 

Leading Para-swimmers will compete in a new, stand-alone World Series event in Australia next year. 

Swimming Australia, Experience Gold Coast and City of Gold Coast have announced a partnership to bring the World Para Swimming World Series event to the Gold Coast for the first time, in what will provide strong preparation for the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles. 

Previously based in Melbourne, the decision to relocate from the World Series event comes after the unveiling of the outdoor venue for the 2028 Paralympic Games. The move gives Australian and international swimmers the chance to gain more experience in outdoor conditions. 

Para-swimming at the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics will be held at a new, temporary outdoor aquatics centre in Long Beach. 

The Gold Coast’s Para World Series event, to be held from 20-22 February at Gold Coast Aquatic Centre, will attract swimmers from across the world to one of Australia’s premier aquatic venues. 

And next year’s event will also be the last chance for Australian athletes to secure selection for the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, with the qualification period ending on 26 February. 

This series also provides a platform for international classification and competition for Para swimmers across the world. 

At the announcement this week, Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said: “What a coup. The 2026 World Para series will be the first time the Coast has hosted this global swimming event and we are proud of showcasing our Para stars – and potential Commonwealth Games Dolphins – as the main event.” 

 “Hosting these championships not only highlights the incredible sporting prowess of the world’s best Para-athletes but equally, helps shine a light on the city’s sports facilities as we count down to the 2032 Olympics and Paralympics. I applaud Swimming Australia and World Para Swimming for showing faith in the Coast. We will deliver.’’ 

Swimming Australia General Manager of Paralympic Program Anna Johnson, added: “This is a great chance for our Australian swimmers but also a great opportunity for international athletes to get critical outdoor racing opportunities ahead LA.” 

“It is also really important from a Commonwealth Games selection perspective for our athletes to nominate their times to be considered for Glasgow with solid pool performances off the back of a successful World Championships this year. 

“We also thank Swimming Victoria for their support in delivering this event alongside their Victorian Open Championships over a number of years and giving our athletes to chance to compete internationally on home shores.” 

The World Para Swimming World Series on the Gold Coast which will be broadcast on 9Now from 20-22 February. 

By Swimming Australia.

Published 13 October, 2026.